This spring I am trying new things--personally and professionally. But today I was reminded of the smell of spring. Driving home this evening I smelled a lot of grass with a hint (okay, more than a hint) of onion. So today's topic is the smell of spring, specifically the smell (and management) of wild onion and wild garlic.
Now some people really hate wild onion and wild garlic. As for me, I don't mind it. To me it makes the world smell like a really big salad. But for those of you who just can't stand it here are some fun facts to make your management of this weed a little bit easier.
For starters, most of what you call wild onion is actually wild garlic (Allium vineale) and is a cool season bulb. There is no preemergent control and post-emergent control is done chemically. For those who would rather not spray, mowing will help weaken the plant but may not actually ever kill it. Take heart though, since it is a cool season plant it's day in the yard is short and usually does not last through April. The University of Tennessee Extension has a great publication on wild garlic if you are interested in reading about this edible weed by following this link: http://www.tennesseeturfgrassweeds.org/admin/Lists/Fact%20Sheets/Attachments/7/W212_wildgarlic.pdf
So many great things are getting ready to happen in April. The Garden Party is April 10th at the Extension Office, a Garden Photography class, and a New Gardener series. And for those who want more detail, we are already signing up people for the Master Gardener Class this fall.
So for now, let me wish you all a Happy Easter weekend and here's to nice spring weather!
1 comment:
I am like you. I love the smell of wild onions. I can smell them right after I mow.
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